Formation | 1898 |
---|---|
Dissolved | 1925 |
Type | Artists' union |
1st president | James McNeill Whistler |
2nd president | Auguste Rodin |
3rd president | William Orpen |
The International Society of Sculptors, Painters and Gravers was a union of professional artists that existed from 1898 to 1925, "To promote the study, practice, and knowledge of sculpture, painting, etching, lithographing, engraving, and kindred arts in England or elsewhere...".[1] It came to be known simply as The International.[2] The society organised exhibitions, some for members only and some open to others, and social events such as musical evenings and soirées.[1] The exhibitions were held in a number of London venues, and in other cities around England, including Nottingham and Manchester.[1] Its founder and first president was James McNeill Whistler.[1] On his death, the presidency was taken up by Auguste Rodin, with John Lavery as vice-president.[1] The society contributed £500 towards the cost of Whistler's memorial.[1]